9 February 2024

To Married Couples throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto,

As we celebrate Marriage Sunday in the Archdiocese of Toronto, I wish to extend my prayers and best wishes to all married couples. This is a wonderful occasion to honour your commitment, fidelity and public witness to the sacrament of holy matrimony. Each day that you say "yes",  you affirm the vows made on your wedding day to support one another through the joys and struggles of life's journey. 

Of course, it is not an easy path and a good marriage requires patience, trust, forgiveness and mutual support. I encourage you to also ensure that prayer remains central to your relationship, ever mindful of God's role in the sacramental bond that accompanies your life-long commitment. Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, reminds us of the role of the Church in supporting married couples: "We help them by offering welcome, closeness, accompaniment, discernment and integration into the body of the Church." 

Please know that I also keep close to my heart and in prayer those members of the Body of Christ who have experienced the pain of a broken relationship or the loss of a spouse. There are programs and ministries available throughout the archdiocese to help assist those who have endured these challenges and moments of suffering. I hope that these supportive resources may assist in accompanying those who have faced many difficult times, offering hope and light through the darkness.

I also express my deep appreciation for all those who are engaged in marriage enrichment programs throughout our archdiocese, from marriage preparation to ongoing support for married couples. Your service helps to foster healthy relationships and strong families infused with faith, so desperately needed in our day. 

Additional resources to support marriage and families in the Archdiocese of Toronto can be found by visiting: www.archtoronto.org/marriage.

May we find inspiration in the life and personal sacrifice of our loving Mother Mary and her spouse, Joseph, and also those married couples you encounter each day; parents, grandparents, relatives and friends who are faithful witnesses, celebrating their relationships and authentic love for one another.

I reiterate my sincere gratitude and admiration for married couples throughout our beautiful archdiocese. May your love and shining example extend to your families and all those you meet, reminding us of the profound impact your deeply committed relationship can have on others each and every day.  May God continue to bless you now and always. 

Sincerely Yours in Jesus with Mary, 

Most Rev. Francis Leo
Archbishop of Toronto